Global Career Launch: Oaxaca, Mexico
International work experience develops important skills, builds resumes, and expands professional networks. This six-week internship with Tejiendo Alianzas (“Weaving Partnerships”), a Mexican non-governmental organization, will give future business leaders an opportunity to collaborate with local entrepreneurs and help resolve challenges faced by rural enterprises. Tejiendo Alianzas works with residents of rural communities who have limited economic resources to co-create and incubate sustainable micro-businesses, leading to more employment in Oaxacan communities.
As part of this internship, you will work directly with DAVA Artisan Design, a cooperative of 15 Zapotec women from the San Dionisio Ocotepec community who make high-quality handmade sandals and shoes.
In partnership with DAVA, students will:
- Observe business operations and identify primary challenges
- Propose and share ideas for solutions, to be evaluated by DAVA
- Test and evaluate selected solutions
- Assess the final results of solutions
Program Dates: June 10 – July 24, 2024
Application Deadlines:
Priority Deadline – November 15, 2023
Standard Deadline – EXTENDED – January 31, 2024
Eligibility: UT Undergraduate Students
Cost: Around $2,635*
*Additional Scholarships may be Available
With the supervision and guidance of Tejiendo Alianzas, Texas McCombs MBA students, and a UT McCombs professor, undergraduates will see first-hand how innovation knows no borders, how cultural heritage and traditions adapt to satisfy modern market trends, and how crafted products are paving the way for the economic and social development of local communities.
In addition to an unforgettable experience, students may also participate in the following excursions and activities:
- Monte Alban
- Teotitlan del Valle natural dyes and rug tour
- Santiago Suchilquitongo to visit Xuchil Natural Products
- Tlacolula market
- Visit Casa Martinez to learn about the importance of mezcal production in the community
- Visit Tia Mago to learn about local chocolate production
- Cooking class with Doña Clara on how to make tortillas, quesadillas, memelitas
- Visit the 250-year-old Ex-Hacienda Guadalupe to learn about the Oaxifornia project working with artisans all over Mexico
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for this program?
All undergraduates are eligible to apply. 5-8 students will be selected. Candidates with the following experience will be strongly considered:
- Working with startups
- Intermediate Spanish ability or experience working with Spanish speakers
- Working with indigenous communities
- Working in supply chain management positions
- Working in professional operations
- Working in multicultural settings
- Collective problem solving
- Working in economic development
What is the financial obligation for this program?
The estimated financial obligation is about $6,635 total – $4,000 GCL Scholarship = $2,635 per student*
*Additional Scholarships may be available.
Do I need to apply for the Global Career Launch Scholarship?
When and how will l receive the Global Career Launch Scholarship?
What will a typical day be like?
Where will I stay during the Global Career Launch internship?
How will I do my laundry?
Will transportation to and from the airport be provided?
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